Human trafficking victims rescued in Zamboanga

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — At least 48 victims of human trafficking, including two minors and nine women, were rescued from a motorboat at a port in this city on Monday.

Personnel of the Navy, Naval Intelligence Service Group, Philippine Coast Guard and Departments of Justice and Social Welfare and Development intercepted the victims at around 10 p.m.

Rear Admiral Rene Medina, Naval Forces Western Mindanao commander, said the victims were aboard M/L Moneza bound for Taganak, Tawi-Tawi and supposedly on their way to Sabah.

“It was learned that out of 95 persons on the boat, only 20 were legitimate passengers and residents of Taganak,” Medina said.

A manhunt for the recruiter of the victims is ongoing.